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Neurology (Expert Forum)
als?
This forum is for questions and support regarding neurology issues such as: Alzheimer's Disease, ALS, Autism, Brain Cancer, Cerebral Palsy, Chronic Pain, Epilepsy, Fibromyalgia, Headaches, MS, Neuralgia, Neuropathy, Parkinson's Disease, RSD, Sleep Disorders, Stroke, Traumatic Brain Injury
als?
by ced1, Aug 14, 2004 12:00AM
41 year old male not sure what to do next. My problem started Spring of '03. With dull pain in finger and toenails. And slight numbness in left hand. Blood work revealed an positive ANA and low white cell blood count so Family physician referred me to a specialist who eventually ordered a EMG/nerve conduction test (June '03). Test was normal with slight carpal tunnel in left hand. September of '03 after I had a sinus infection, during the recovery I would easily become fatigued, rapid heartbeats to the point of passing out once, difficulty swallowing muscle twitching and spasms all over my body including throat area where the throat would close briefly, at times I would not know where I was and very dis-oriented along with slow to respond to questions asked of me. I was admitted to the hospital for one week where numerous blood test were taken when which revealed a CPK-MM level of 1600, low white cell count and the ANA would alternately go positive at times (during consecutive test). Cat Scan, test related to heart functions was done with nothing found. (Also during this period I lost between 10 and 15 pounds)
During the week stay at the hospital my CPK levels decreased slightly and symptoms subsided. I was release with no definitive diagnosis. From September to late November I had reoccurring bouts with muscle spasms/twitching with temporary weakness I also had a nerve and muscle biopsy done during this period which came back normal. December ' 03 everything seem to disappear, CPK levels dropped to the 250 range and I started to gain weight and feel normal. Present August 11, 2004 the symptoms have returned, difficulty swallowing, muscle spasms/twitching temporary weakness in limbs and face. Feeling of pressure in face, (like sinus pressure) that comes and goes. I am basically at a loss not sure what to do next. I had an uncle who died from ALS and it is my understanding my symptoms are seen in ALS patients. Would like your opinion.
During the week stay at the hospital my CPK levels decreased slightly and symptoms subsided. I was release with no definitive diagnosis. From September to late November I had reoccurring bouts with muscle spasms/twitching with temporary weakness I also had a nerve and muscle biopsy done during this period which came back normal. December ' 03 everything seem to disappear, CPK levels dropped to the 250 range and I started to gain weight and feel normal. Present August 11, 2004 the symptoms have returned, difficulty swallowing, muscle spasms/twitching temporary weakness in limbs and face. Feeling of pressure in face, (like sinus pressure) that comes and goes. I am basically at a loss not sure what to do next. I had an uncle who died from ALS and it is my understanding my symptoms are seen in ALS patients. Would like your opinion.
Doctor's Answer
by CCF-Neuro-M.D.-CS, Aug 18, 2004 12:00AM
Based on what you have reported, I would think that ALS is unlikely. A more likely possibility would be an inflammatory condition or a connective tissue disorder. Perhaps a second opinion at an academic center would be reasonable. They will be able to review your tests and then make further recommendations. Good luck.
